The Savage Detectives by Roberto Bolano (Cover)

I’ve been trying to finish The Savage Detectives by Roberto Bolano for a few months but I’ve kept finding other books or things to occupy my time. I’ve used this book as my “go to bed” book; one that I read for a few minutes each night right before I slip into sleep. I recently decided to move this up on the list of books that I need to finish so I’ve started carrying this with me everywhere I go, conveniently tucked into my man-bag waiting for me to reach in and grab it.

Bolano is a genius, you can see that clearly as you read this. The beginning of the novel reads quickly but then you get to the second part and it starts to slow down some, not that it loses it’s appeal but more that it changes speed, feel, almost becomes another novel entirely. An interesting journey through Mexico and Europe, mainly, and the poetry movement that took place during the 70s and 80s.

I’ll have more thoughts once I finish this, I’m only about 100 pages off, and I will be able to organize the journal that I keep while reading books. By the way, somewhat related, keeping a reading journal helps you become a better reader. I use Moleskines, because I’m snooty, but using a regular spiral bound works out well too.

One of the books that I’ll be reading soon is another book by Bolano, 2666. There has been a resurgence of Bolano lately, more of his novels are currently being published post-mortem. Both The Savage Detectives and 2666 are considered must-read books.

Currently Listening

Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings

I’ve been mildly obsessed with the sound of Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings. It reminds me of a more modern Motown sound that is quite addicting.

I Learned The Hard Way was the first leaked song from this album, although there a few on here that I enjoy. I highly recommend listening; I’ve had this on repeat on my iPod for the past couple of weeks.

Other things I’ve been listening to: Frightened Rabbit’s new album, The Apples in Stereo, Annuals.

Currently Watching

Modern Family

Modern Family is one of the best new shoes on television. I don’t watch television much anymore, but I usually make time to catch up with this show. The ginger gay man reminds me of my roommate, albeit my roommate is less flamboyant, but if he were more flaming he would be this guy from Modern Family.

Aside from this, I’ve tried to keep up with Chuck and Lost. I don’t really have time for anything else, occasionally I will break out a DVD courtesy of my Netflix subscription. Most recently I watched A Serious Man and Moon. I have three more that I have yet to watch but I will most likely start working my way through them tonight.